Heart drug recalled over defects

A drug used to treat various heart conditions has been recalled following the discovery that some tablets were either under- or over-sized.

Users of the 50mg and 100mg tablets of Pacific brand Atenolol have been asked to return any tablets to their pharmacy and will be given a free replacement with a different brand, drug maker Mylan New Zealand said in a statement.

Those who unable to make it to a pharmacy should continue to take the tablets, avoiding those which are larger or smaller than normal.

If a user of the drug notices any ill effects they should contact their doctor immediately.

Pacific Atenolol tablets are used to combat high blood pressure, irregular heartbeats and to prevent angina (chest pain).

- NZPA